My photos going back 10 years ago to 2012

There is a new challenge in social media referred to as #10yearchallenge. It is cute, fun and popular. Folks are to post a current photo of themselves next to a photo snapped 10 years ago in 2012.

It is fun, but very limited and underwhelming for me.

Back in 2012, I was living a very vibrant and exciting life. I was dining out, socializing, going to events, being with family and connecting socially with colleagues. However, 2022 reflects an abrupt, totally different lifestyle with me being masked, no longer socializing and remaining as safe as possible in my pandemic cave.

Hence, a comparison of my life in 2022 to 2012 is GREATER than a silly side-by-side selfie. Check out my life back in 2012. What a major difference!!!!

2012 at my church’s ceremony as I became a deacon. Family and church members present.
My brother, niece and I at a River North restaurant just dining and having fun in 2012.
Fine dining on the MagMile with a long-time childhood friend.
I was faculty working the graduation ceremony in 2012 at the UIC Pavillion.
This was Memorial Day 2012 holiday as I hosted lunch. I always hosted with good food!
In Springfield attending an annual instructor’s conference. I attended no less than 5 conferences every year. Attending conferences with colleagues was my preferred method of socializing back in the day. That is so over.
Attended a retirement party for a long-time supervisor. Really great colleagues.

Bogart’s Charhouse closed soon after 2012. Located in a Cook County suburb.
My son and I always looked forward to going to my colleagues’ annual party. Great Greek music, good food, lovely ambiance and wonderful former co-workers. Sigh… I really miss this.
A lovely, elegant baby shower for my cousin in 2012. Always nice to connect with family.
Thanksgiving 2012 at my junky little condominium. I miss my family get togethers. Sigh.
Me, my son and nephew after church dining out at Rosebud. Man! I miss those days.

Yes, I miss those fun days 10 years ago in 2012. But, I also respect the importance of staying safe and protected during a dangerous respiratory pandemic. We are 2 years deep into the pandemic. We have safe and effective vaccines, but too much opposition.

This pandemic is not going to end anytime soon.

I hope you enjoyed the photos. A profound and sharp difference in 2012 as compared to 2022 that only photos can reveal.

Stay safe and vaccinate!